Nail Surgery and Antibiotics
Ingrown toenails and other nail-related conditions can be both painful and challenging to manage. At Bondi Podiatry, we provide expert care and treatment options, including nail surgery for persistent and severe cases. Additionally, one of the benefits of seeing an endorsed podiatrist is that they can prescribe antibiotics when necessary, ensuring a holistic and timely approach to treatment.
In this article, we will cover the importance of nail surgery, the role of antibiotics in treating infected nails, and why seeing an endorsed podiatrist can make a difference in your treatment outcomes.
What is Nail Surgery?
Nail surgery is a minor, in-office procedure designed to treat severe nail conditions, especially ingrown toenails that don't respond to conservative treatment methods. The surgery is aimed at relieving pain, preventing further infections, and correcting the toenail's growth.
Common Reasons for Nail Surgery:
- Severe Ingrown Toenails: A condition where the edge of the nail grows into the skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. If left untreated, it can lead to infection.
- Nail Trauma: Damage to the nail caused by injury or repetitive pressure (e.g., from tight shoes) may require surgical intervention to repair the nail bed.
- Recurring Infections: Chronic nail infections that do not respond to conservative care may need surgical intervention to prevent further complications.
Types of Nail Surgery:
- Partial Nail Avulsion: The removal of a portion of the toenail to relieve pressure and inflammation caused by an ingrown toenail. This is the most common procedure for nail surgery.
- Total Nail Avulsion: The complete removal of the toenail if the entire nail is causing problems.
- Chemical Matrixectomy: Often performed in conjunction with nail avulsion, this involves applying a chemical (commonly phenol or sodium hydroxide) to prevent the nail from growing back into the skin.
Nail surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia, making it a relatively painless procedure. The goal is to ensure a permanent solution to the nail issue and prevent its recurrence.
The Role of Antibiotics in Nail Surgery
In some cases, ingrown toenails or other nail conditions may lead to infections that require antibiotic treatment. Signs of infection include redness, swelling, pain, pus formation, and even fever.
Why Antibiotics May Be Needed:
- Pre-Operative Infection: If the nail or surrounding skin is infected before the surgery, antibiotics are typically prescribed to control the infection before or after the procedure.
- Post-Operative Care: While infection after nail surgery is rare, it can occur, especially if proper aftercare is not followed. In such cases, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat infections.
- Immunocompromised Patients: Individuals with compromised immune systems (e.g., those with diabetes or other chronic conditions) may be at higher risk of infection and may benefit from a precautionary course of antibiotics.
Endorsed Podiatrists and Prescribing Antibiotics
An endorsed podiatrist is a podiatrist with additional qualifications and training, allowing them to prescribe certain medications, including antibiotics. This is a valuable service for patients, as it enables more comprehensive care and eliminates the need for referrals to GPs or other specialists for prescriptions.
Benefits of Seeing an Endorsed Podiatrist:
- Immediate Prescription: Endorsed podiatrists can prescribe antibiotics immediately after surgery or when they detect an infection. This streamlines the process, ensuring you receive prompt treatment.
- Comprehensive Care: Since endorsed podiatrists can handle both surgical and medication aspects of your ingrown toenail, you won’t need to see multiple healthcare providers for the same issue.
- Holistic Treatment Plan: In addition to surgery and antibiotics, endorsed podiatrists can provide guidance on wound care, appropriate footwear, and other ways to manage and prevent future nail issues.
At Bondi Podiatry, we are proud to have endorsed podiatrists on our team, offering patients complete care for nail problems. Whether you need surgery, antibiotics, or both, you can trust that you're in good hands.
Aftercare and Recovery
After nail surgery, proper aftercare is essential for preventing infection and ensuring optimal healing. Your podiatrist will provide specific instructions tailored to your procedure, but general aftercare typically includes:
- Keeping the Area Clean: Regular cleaning of the surgical site with a saline solution, betadine or other recommended products is crucial to avoid infection.
- Avoiding Tight Footwear: Wear open-toed shoes or sandals in the days following surgery to reduce pressure on the healing toe.
- Taking Prescribed Antibiotics: If antibiotics are prescribed, it’s important to take the full course as directed, even if your symptoms improve.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Your podiatrist will schedule follow-up visits to check the healing process and ensure there are no complications.
By adhering to these aftercare instructions, most patients recover from nail surgery without complications and can enjoy relief from pain and recurrent infections.
Conclusion
If you're dealing with persistent nail issues such as ingrown toenails, trauma, or infections, nail surgery performed by a skilled podiatrist may be the most effective solution. Additionally, seeing an endorsed podiatrist at Bondi Podiatry ensures you receive comprehensive care, including the prescription of antibiotics when necessary.
At Bondi Podiatry, we are committed to providing our patients with the highest level of care. Whether you need surgical treatment, antibiotics, or ongoing management for your nail problems, our team is here to help you every step of the way.
For more information or to book a consultation, call us at (02) 8971 1682. Let us help you find the right solution for your nail health.
